Stars honoured at BCCI Awards

Mumbai: The who’s who of India cricket — from Madhav Mantri to Sachin Tendulkar — were present at the Taj Mahal Palace and Towers here as some of the best players received the annual BCCI awards.

While Virat Kohli received the Polly Umrigar Trophy for being the best international cricketer of 2011-12, Gavaskar was conferred the Colonel CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award worth Rs 25 lakh, a trophy and a citation, watched by his uncle Mantri.

But when the sons and wives of some of the legendary cricketers who have passed away stepped up to receive their awards, the atmosphere became nostalgic.

“I am happy to receive the award in front of so many cricketers whom I have watched and got inspired by. I hope I can continue in the same way this season,” said Kohli after receiving his award.

Tendulkar thanked Gavaskar for “inspiring” him to take up cricket.

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA), despite being embroiled in off-field controversies, received the best association award for the second year running.

“The credit for the award goes to the players and management. It was their joint effort. The selectors also deserve to be congratulated as they picked the best possible teams despite pressure from various quarters,” DDCA sports secretary Sunil Dev, who received the award from BCCI secretary Sanjay Jagdale, told MAIL TODAY.

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